Water damage is one of the most common and costly hazards in the United States. If you’re lucky, the damage will be limited appliance damage. But if the destruction is extensive, it could cause structural and electrical damage and contaminate drinking water. Here are a few consequences of flood damage.
1. Safety Risks
A severe flood can displace the soil under the foundation, causing cracks that worsen over time. If you notice that the windows and doors don’t latch properly or cracks appear on the walls, it could indicate foundational problems. Some other signs of structural damage include loose and buckling floors, leaking and damaged roofs, and ruptures in embedded pipes. Frayed electrical wires are also a significant threat after a flood.
2. Health Risks
If you don’t dry out all your belongings as soon as possible after the flood, wet items can become a mold problem. Mold and mildew begin to grow in the damp surfaces within 48 hours of the flood. It can potentially damage the drywall, floors, insulation, and furniture. Speak to a professional restoration company to help contain this damage to prevent mold from becoming a severe health issue.
3. Financial Effects
A flood can permanently damage electrical appliances, vehicles, carpets, furnishings, and other belongings. Replacing and repairing them can be expensive. Also, professional water damage cleanup could cost you a fortune if you don’t have proper flood insurance. Sometimes, it could take years for affected homeowners to recover financially.
4. Emotional Hardship
Injuries and loss of life are the most unfortunate events caused by a flood. But even when there’s no danger to life, the emotional damage can be severe. People may struggle with depression, sadness, frustration, and grief and may need professional help. Mental health professionals have always been a part of FEMA and Red Cross’ flood-related disaster response team because the loss can impact people severely.
What Should You Do If a Flood Damages Your House?
If you do have to deal with flood damage, you could either spend time and money trying to get your home back in shape or cut your losses and sell the house as-is to a cash home buyer. As one of Milwaukee’s best cash home buyers, we buy homes irrespective of their condition and location.
I need to sell my house fast! Call us at 414-435-2888 if you want to sell your house as-is. We’ll make a cash offer in less than 24 hours!